Bed bugs are notorious for being a persistent and bothersome problem, invading our homes and causing disruption to our peace of mind.
If you’re in need of an efficient and natural remedy, cedar oil might just be the solution you’ve been seeking.
With its pleasant aroma and potent properties, cedar oil has gained popularity as a potential repellent and treatment for bed bugs.
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This article will cover the topic of cedar oil’s potential as a bed bug repellent, step-by-step instructions on creating your own cedar oil bug repellent, and practical advice on using cedar oil to effectively tackle bed bug infestations.
Say goodbye to those pesky bugs and hello to a natural solution with cedar oil!
Does Cedar Oil Repel Bed Bugs?
While some people may have experienced success with cedar oil as a bed bug repellent, there is limited scientific backing for this claim.
A 2014 study that specifically investigated the effectiveness of cedar oil-based products against bed bugs did not yield significant results in terms of repelling the pests.
Another study in 2015 identified other essential oil compounds, such as carvacrol, thymol, citronellic acid, and eugenol, as more effective against bed bugs, but cedar oil was not tested.
Although cedar wood’s strong odor may have some repellent properties, there is not enough scientific evidence to support the claim that cedar oil alone is an effective bed bug repellent.
Additional research is needed to determine its efficacy against bed bugs specifically
How to Make Cedar Oil Bug Repellant Spray
Ingredients
Cedarwood essential oil
Water
Spray bottle
Instructions
Fill a spray bottle with water.
Add 20-30 drops of cedarwood essential oil to the bottle.
Shake the bottle well to mix the oil and water together.
Spray the mixture on the surfaces of your bedding, mattress, box spring, and furniture potentially affected by bed bugs.
Reapply the mixture every few days to maintain the scent.
How to Use Cedar Oil for Bed Bugs
Acquire 100% Pure Cedar Oil
Opt for premium, high-quality cedarwood essential oil that is 100% pure for optimal results.
Dilute the Cedar Oil
Blend a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut, olive, or grapeseed oil.
Administer the Mixture
Apply the diluted mixture to areas where bed bugs may be present, including your mattress, bedding, and nearby furniture.
For laundering sheets and pillowcases, consider adding a few drops of the mixture to your laundry detergent.
Repeat the Procedure
Reapply the mixture every few days to maintain a potent and effective scent.
Utilize Cedarwood Chips
Employ cedarwood chips in drawers and closets to repel bed bugs with their natural scent.
Place the chips directly on affected areas or in small sachets for added effectiveness.
The Harm of Using Cedar Oil
Even though cedar oil has innumerable benefits, it fails to work as effectively as any other non-natural alternatives of insect repellents.
Also, the smell doesn’t stay for long and you would have to keep spraying the cedar oil at regular intervals of time. This makes it a tedious task to do.
Another possible threat might come from the fact that it is a tree extract. Tree extracts do not suit everyone and allergies and skin irritations are common. So, it is important to check whether or not cedar oil has any side effects in your case.
Frequently Asked Question
Does Cedar Oil Kill Bed Bugs?
While cedar oil does exhibit insecticidal properties that could potentially kill bed bugs upon direct contact, it is not considered a highly effective means of eradicating bed bugs.Â
While cedar oil may provide temporary relief or deterrence against bed bugs, it should not be solely relied upon as the sole solution for eliminating a bed bug infestation.
How Does Cedar Oil Kill Bed Bugs?
Cedar oil is believed to kill bed bugs by disrupting their respiratory system and dehydrating them.Â
The oil contains natural compounds, known as sesquiterpenes, that can penetrate the exoskeleton of the bed bugs and damage their cells. This leads to dehydration and eventually death of the bed bugs.
Which Essential Oil is Best for Bed Bugs?
Carvacrol, derived from oregano and thyme; thymol (thyme); citronellic acid (lemongrass); and eugenol (clove) are the most effective essential oils for bed bugs.
Conclusion
In summary, dealing with bed bugs can be a frustrating experience, but cedar oil offers a natural alternative to chemical insecticides that can provide an advantage.
It’s crucial to understand that while cedar oil could potentially deter bed bugs, it is not a guaranteed remedy for eliminating a bed bug infestation.
It’s recommended to use this in conjunction with other bed bug control measures, such as professional extermination services and thorough cleaning and vacuuming.
